(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Romario Shepherd Returns as West Indies Gear Up for ODI Series Against Pakistan
PORT OF SPAIN: The West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, bringing back experienced all-rounder Romario Shepherd to strengthen their side. Coach Darren Sammy emphasized that positive results in the series are crucial for improving the team’s chances of qualifying automatically for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.
The squad maintains its core from recent successful home series against England and Bangladesh, as well as the UK tour earlier this year. The West Indies will aim for a fourth consecutive home ODI series win, with Shepherd and left-arm pacer Jediah Blades returning to the side, led by Shai Hope.
The team also includes young talents such as 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew, who impressed during his debut series against Sri Lanka. Amir Jangoo, who scored a century on his ODI debut, also retains his spot.
Pacer Alzarri Joseph has been rested to manage his workload, according to a statement from Cricket West Indies (CWI).
Coach Darren Sammy said, “Pakistan presents a new challenge as we work toward automatic qualification for the World Cup. While qualifying is our immediate goal, building a winning mindset and team cohesion is essential for long-term success.”
The first ODI is scheduled for Friday, and the Pakistan squad, led by Mohammad Rizwan, has already begun training after arriving from Florida, where they won the preceding T20I series 2-1.
The training session included net practice, fielding drills, and conditioning work, as the players prepare for what is expected to be a high-intensity series.
Squads:
West Indies:
Shai Hope (capt), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
Pakistan:
Mohammad Rizwan (capt), Salman Ali Agha, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Muqeem.
